By this point, we’ve seen enough moonphase watches that it’s difficult to become impressed with the romantic crescent-shaped apertures and star-studded dials that dominate the complication. Most brands favor decorative indicators, which are fun to look at but don’t always give you the best readout of what the Moon is actually doing. That changes now with TAG Heuer’s Carrera Astronomer, which approaches the moonphase with interpretation in mind.
A Different Kind of Race Against Time
The most notable addition to the Carrera for 2025 is its moonphase complication, but this isn’t your grandfather’s romantic moon-through-clouds display. TAG Heuer has reimagined the entire concept with a rotating disc at 6 o’clock that shows seven illustrated moon stages across the complete 29.5-day cycle. Two slender arrows track daily movement with scientific precision, advancing each night at 1:00 AM in perfect synchronization with the lunar cycle above.
Housed in a 39mm stainless steel case, the Astronomer runs on the newly released Calibre 7 with a 50-hour power reserve. However, the real conversation starter is the nearly-avant garde Space Age-inspired moonphase display.
Three Models for Every Taste
The collection debuts with three distinct references, though only the black is part of the permanent range. The standard steel model features a black-and-white moonphase display with applied Arabic numerals and TAG Heuer’s signature “beads of rice” bracelet — a design that connects directly to the brand’s 1960s heritage.
The two limited editions (500 pieces each) add personality through color and materials. The standout is arguably the turquoise-accented version on grey leather, where Super-LumiNova coating makes the colored details appear to glow even in daylight. Likewise, a two-tone model introduces warmth through 18K rose gold accents on the dial, hands, and bracelet center links.
Spec Sheet
Case Size: 39mm
Case Thickness: 12.16mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: In-house Calibre 7 automatic
Moonphase: Rotating disc with 7 illustrated lunar stages, advances daily at 1:00 AM
Bands: 7-link steel bracelet or grey leather strap with folding clasp
Limited Edition?: Yes, 500 (turquoise green and two-tone)
Pricing & Availability
The TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer will be available next month, priced at $4,800 on bracelet, $4,600 on leather strap, and $7,250 for the two-tone gold version. Again, the turquoise green and two-tone references are limited to 500 pieces each.
Recap
TAG Heuer Carrera Astronomer Moonphase
TAG Heuer brings a moonphase complication to the Carrera platform. The Astronomer replaces traditional romantic moonphase displays with a scientific rotating disc that shows seven illustrated lunar stages with precision timing, advancing daily at 1:00 AM.
